Ancient History and Iconic Cities with La Dolce Vita Orient Express

Day 1  Venice                        
Arrive into Venice where you will transfer by private water taxi to your hotel. After settling into your room, go for an alfresco dinner on the hotel’s terrace (open seasonally from April – October) with stunning views over the Grand Canal. Once a palazzo for the Italian nobility, The Gritti Palace features opulent furnishings and exceptional art, demonstrating the property’s rich past.                        

Day 2  Venice            
Take a trip to the most iconic Venice landmarks with your included day tour, featuring skip the line admission at popular sites. Start at the impressive St Mark’s Basilica, followed by the Gothic-styled Doges Palace, once the seat of the Venetian government. Later, see the centuries-old glass-making process at Murano and stop off at Burano on your return to explore and photograph the island’s brightly coloured streets.                        

Day 3  Venice                    
There is no better way to take in the beauty of Venice than with a private Grand Canal tour, included in your package. Enjoy the peaceful boat trip, drifting past some of the most iconic symbols of the city and meandering through some of the smaller canals for an entrancing journey past historical Venetian houses.

Day 4  Florence                        
Today, take a private water taxi and road transfer to Venice station to board your train. Arrive into the wondrous city of Florence, meet your driver and transfer to your city-centre hotel. Once settled in, venture into the city, down glorious, cobbled alleyways and cap off your first day with authentic Italian pasta.  

Day 5  Florence                  
After sipping a traditional espresso, begin your day with a visit to the symbol of Florence – the iconic Duomo, a striking architectural feat. Skip the queues with your included ticket and ascend the 463 steps for commanding city views. Afterwards, be astounded by the beauty of Italian Renaissance art with a visit to the Uffizi Gallery.            

Day 6  Florence                    
Spend the morning with a visit to the Accademia Gallery, famous for housing Michaelangelo’s legendary ‘David’ statue. Afterwards, stop by the Ponte Vecchio for a brilliant photo opportunity and a charming walk along the Arno River to absorb the atmosphere. In the afternoon, become a master of Italian cooking with a course teaching you the art of Italian pizza and gelato-making – be rewarded by tasting your creations!                        

Day 7  Rome                
In the morning, transfer to Florence station and board the train to Rome, admiring the views from your comfortable seats. Arrive into this beautiful city and take a private transfer to your hotel. Known as one of the world’s most inspiring and romantic cities, start your trip off with a wander through Rome’s picturesque streets, passing by vibrant boutiques, quaint cafés and bustling piazzas.      

Day 8  Rome                    
Make a visit to, arguably, the most iconic Roman landmark – the Colosseum. With your included ticket, skip the line to spend more time exploring and less time queuing. Your guide’s storytelling will bring this iconic landmark to life and give you further insight into ancient Rome. Continue the tour with a visit to Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. Sample a delectable pasta dish at one of the trattorias dotted around the piazzas, before spending the rest of the day at leisure.    

Day 9  Rome            
Start the day with an early morning tour of the many halls and galleries of the Vatican Museums. Afterwards, your guide will lead you into the Sistine Chapel where you can admire the renowned murals by Michelangelo, followed by a visit to St Peter’s Basilica, bypassing long lines of spectators to admire the magnificent church. This evening, dine alfresco, indulging in a delicious meal at a local pizzeria.      

Day 10  La Dolce Vita Orient Express            
Board La Dolce Vita Orient Express and settle into your stylish cabin as the train sets off from Rome Ostiense station. In the evening, tuck into a sumptuous dinner in the Restaurant Car, incorporating fresh, locally sourced ingredients and cuisine curated by renowned 3-Michelin-starred chef Heinz Beck.      

Day 11  La Dolce Vita Orient Express              
Arrive into the UNESCO World Heritage city, Matera, in the morning, and perhaps opt to join the optional excursion - a captivating, historic city tour. If choosing to take part in this day tour, lunch will be offered in a traditional Materan cave restaurant, filled with ancient charm, and you will also have the chance to ride a historic train to the beautiful town of Pescocostanzo. Reboard the train in the afternoon, before retiring to the Restaurant Car for Le Grand Soir dinner, a memorable and exquisite dining experience.              

Day 12  La Dolce Vita Orient Express            
Savour a final, sumptuous Italian breakfast on board, before arriving into the medieval city of Palena where you will have time to explore its ancient streets and discover its historic gems. After an authentic meal in the city, reboard the train for your final journey back to Rome. In the evening, check back into your comfortable hotel.                

Day 13  Rome                    
After picking up some wonderful souvenirs, enjoy a private transfer to Rome airport to make your onwards flight.